What type of collagen is best for loose skin?

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What types of collagen are best for skin?

Type I collagen is usually considered best for the skin. It is the most abundant type of collagen in the body. It maintains healthy bones, skin, hair and nails.

• Like all types of collagen, levels of type I collagen begin to decline after about 25 years of age.
• Because it is so prevalent in the connective tissues, the decrease of type I collagen results in characteristics such as sagging skin, fine lines and brittle nails, as well as thinning hair.
• However, type I collagen isn't just a beauty-related substance. It's also a major component of the tendons, organs and bones. This makes it a vital component of any diet
  or wellness routine.

There are 16 types of collagen. However, the most commonly researched types of collagen are types I, II and III.

Type II collagen:

• Another common type of collagen found in supplements is type II collagen.
• Although somewhat less prevalent in the body than type I, type II collagen is extremely important.
• It is the main component of the cartilage and is extremely healthy for the skeletal system.
• Active people who need to rely on their joints may also benefit from adding type II collagen into their diet. Cartilage collagen is composed of type II collagen.

Type III collagen:

• It is found in the vital protein line of collagen products.
• It is generally found in reticular fiber such as in the bone marrow.
• It is usually found alongside type I collagen in the body.
• Vital proteins collagen peptides and marine collagen are rich in types I and III collagen.

As described above, types I and III collagen are the most commonly occurring collagen types within our bodies. These two types of collagen promote hair, skin, nail and bone health. Types I and III collagen increase elasticity of the skin, thus minimizing wrinkles and allowing youthful glow. Moreover, types I and III collagen stimulate the production of amino acids, in particular glycine. Glycine is the amino acid that is responsible for building the muscles and burning fat.

Has this happened to you? When you look in the mirror, you've started to notice wrinkles or sagging skin in your reflection.

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So, what gives? Could collagen loss be the culprit for your less-than-stellar appearance?

'Collagen is the main structural protein in our skin. It helps the dermis retain its firmness and elasticity. It's also found elsewhere, like in our bones, tendons and cartilage,' explains dermatologist Shilpi Khetarpal, MD.

'At some point in our 20s, we all start experiencing a steady, gradual decline of our natural collagen ' just how much and how fast depends largely on environmental factors like sun exposure, smoking cigarettes and pollution. As we lose collagen, our skin becomes drier and more wrinkled.'

So, what can you do? Should you start taking collagen supplements?

Collagen supplements ' which have been touted by social media influencers and celebrities ' come in different forms: powder, capsules or gummies.

But you may want to think twice before you start working collagen supplements into your daily routine.

Dr. Khetarpal explains whether you'll see a difference from using collagen supplements and offers up some other ways to keep your skin in its best shape.

Do collagen supplements work?

Collagen supplements aren't the best option if you want to improve the appearance of your skin. That's mainly because there's no evidence-based science to prove they work ' or that they're safe.

'A few small studies have shown limited improvement in skin texture with collagen supplements,' notes Dr. Khetarpal. 'But it's important to point out that they're all manufacturer-sponsored studies. And unfortunately, the supplement industry isn't well regulated and has a history of inaccurate labeling and contamination.'

You may be curious about why collagen supplements don't work. Dr. Khetarpal says that collagen supplements are mostly absorbed by your GI tract, which means that there isn't enough collagen that makes it into your bloodstream to be delivered to your hair, nails and skin.

Another factor? Most supplements are made with animal collagen and it's unclear whether this form of collagen is close enough to human collagen to be beneficial.

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Potential collagen supplements benefits

Fans of collagen supplements claim that they may:

• Hydrate skin.
• Improve elasticity.
• Improves hair and nail growth.
• Strengthen bones and muscles.
• Ease joint pain.

But remember: Research doesn't necessarily back up the benefits of collagen supplements.

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So, how long would it take for collagen supplements to work?

You'll need to manage your expectations if you choose to try collagen supplements. It can take three to six months of use before you may begin to see results.

Are collagen supplements safe?

The processed form of collagen, which may be called collagen peptides, comes from animal tissue discarded by meat processors. This substance is ground into a gelatin or powder and placed in a capsule or gummy tablet, along with other sometimes-unnamed byproducts. With the increasing number of food allergies today, this is a critical consideration.

Collagen supplement side effects

Should you watch for any side effects if you decide to take collagen supplements?

Overall, the side effects of collagen supplements are minimal. You may experience the following:

• Headache.
• Lightheadedness.
• Diarrhea.

How to take these supplements

There are countless brands and options of collagen supplements available. If you want to try collagen supplements, you should follow the manufacturer's directions. A daily dose may be anywhere from 2.5 to 15 grams.

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If you're using collagen powder, you can add it to your protein shakes, coffee and even smoothies.

You may want to also consider the cost of collagen supplements ' especially if you take them daily. It can be a costly endeavor that may not add up to any meaningful results.

Bottom line?

Collagen supplements may not be the best line of defense in keeping your skin looking its best. But Dr. Khetarpal says there are other options out there.

You may want to consider procedures ' like microneedling ' which are performed by board-certified dermatologists to stimulate collagen. Your dermatologist may also suggest vitamin A-based topicals, such as tretinoin (Refissa®, Renova® and Retin-A®), which have shown in scientific studies and extended practice to be effective.

And most importantly? There are small things you can do each day to protect your skin.

'If we want to slow down the loss of collagen, it's best to know and avoid environmental hazards. Specifically, stay away from cigarettes and other harmful pollutants, consistently apply sunscreen and wear hats and other protective clothing when outdoors,' advises Dr. Khetarpal.

'It's also helpful to use topical antioxidants (like vitamins C and E) to protect against pollution. Lastly, it's very important to stay well-hydrated. That means drinking at least 64 ounces of fluids every day.'

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